Paper over the cracks

FROM its oak panelling to the worn leather chairs, the room was oddly old fashioned. Rather like Ralph Draper himself, Dolly observed, glancing around the private detective’s office. She hadn’t expect

Ellie was looking to her future – until she saw a face from her past

NATALIE had done it again: spoken without thinking. Honestly, she sometimes thought she consisted of two people. There was the sensible Natalie who recycled her cardboard, and an inner, loose-lipped N

Night, Mum,” Millie called through the living room door. “See you tomorrow, pet.” Her mum stifled a yawn as she called from the sofa where she was watching a film. In the hall mirror, Millie adjusted

I made myself scrambled eggs for Sunday breakfast, accompanied by a toasted sourdough English muffin from the farmers’ market and my favourite coffee in my favourite mug. I had the latest Richard Osma

J AS tapped the shiny knocker twice, then stepped back, glancing at Priya. “Are you sure this is the right flat?” Priya held up the sealed envelope, showing the typed address. “Number three, Oak Avenu